Bearing the Banner

My favorite read from 2011 was the book Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand, who wrote the story of Louis Zamperini’s most remarkable life.  I eagerly tuned into the the podcast of his recent visit to a church in the Bay Area.

At 94 years of age, undeterred by a broken leg, this man was intent on sharing his story: God’s story as revealed in his life.  He was, by all accounts, a hooligan in his younger years, then discovered a more productive (and legal) use of his energy: running.  He competed in the Olympics before becoming a bombardier in WWII, only to endure the unthinkable (that word scarcely does it justice; please read the book).  His reflections, shared with those in attendance, bore God’s message of hope, faith, forgiveness and redemption.

This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!
— 2 Corinthians 5:17 NLT

According to Vines Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words, the word for ‘new’ (kainos)

denotes “new,” of that which is unaccustomed or unused, not “new” in time, recent, but “new” as to form or quality, of different nature from what is contrasted as old.

A different nature is given to the Believer in Christ.  Stunning nugget of truth, isn’t it?  Zamperini lived that truth to the fullest since his moment of salvation.  And he’s still at it.

Are you crippled by your past, fearful you’re not worthy of bearing the banner of the gospel?  Me, too.  I wince every time I think of my deceitful juvenile escapades.  I shudder when a college or high school friend finds me on Facebook, reliving the way I abused the relationships, mistreating those who stood by me.

In our candor lies the evidence of God’s redemption.  As we are willing to walk in the light of His transforming grace, He is glorified for the world to see.  We needn’t detail the sordid sins, but we mustn’t allow shame to squelch the testimony to His powerful work in our lives.

My old nature is not worthy to carry His Name.  And yet, as a new creation, I know He is pleased to have me bear it.  Like Louis, I want my life to sound His message; may it ring with authenticity and humility.  I trust He will give me the strength and courage to do so, for all the days He grants me breath.

And I pray He will do the same for you.

Mark your calendars for early February:
would love to see you in Meridian ID, Ontario OR, or Baker City OR!